Sourdough Discard Waffles: Fluffy Inside, Crispy Outside

I’m just going to come right out and say it: waffles are better than pancakes. I know that’s controversial, but hear me out. Waffles have something pancakes lack—crispy nooks and crannies that soak up syrup like tiny treasure troves of deliciousness while still staying crunchy. And when you make them with sourdough discard, well, you’re in for breakfast royalty.

Now, before you ask: Why sourdough discard? Because that forgotten glob of leftover sourdough starter sitting in your fridge is pure gold, flavor-wise. It adds this subtle, slightly tangy taste to your dishes that’s hard to describe (but trust me, it’s heavenly). Plus, using it in recipes like waffles means less waste—and who doesn’t love a zero-waste moment?

Fair warning: Once you’ve tried these sourdough discard waffles, you’ll never look at “leftovers” the same way.

Why Sourdough Discard Is a Game Changer

If you’ve ever kept a sourdough starter alive (first of all, good on you), you already know how quickly discard can pile up. Every time you feed that bubbly beast, you’re supposed to remove some of it and toss it. But I ask you: Why toss it when you can make WAFFLES?

Here’s what makes sourdough discard so magical:

1. Flavor: It’s got this mild tanginess that transforms basic recipes from bland to complex.
2. Health perks: Sourdough is easier to digest than regular flour-based recipes because the fermentation process starts breaking down gluten.
3. Sustainability: Using discard is the kitchen equivalent of turning trash into treasure. You’re saving food and money while eating like a breakfast king or queen.

Speaking of breakfast royalty, sourdough discard is wildly versatile. If you’ve already tried making pancakes or biscuits, it’s worth branching out. For ideas beyond waffles, check out this awesome post on Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes: Easy, Tasty Ideas You’ll Love.

Ingredients: Bring Your Discard to Life

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these crispy sourdough discard waffles:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons (40g) sugar (white or brown, your call)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based alternatives work)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Luckily, these waffles don’t require Michelin-star levels of culinary gymnastics. Here’s the lineup:

• A waffle iron (obviously)
• Whisk and a couple of mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula for easy mixing (optional, but fancy)

Let’s Make Sourdough Discard Waffles

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.

2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk and sourdough discard until smooth. Then add eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is fully combined and frothy. (This is where the magic starts.)

3. Get the batter going: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently. Don’t overmix! Lumps are fine—waffle batter doesn’t need to be the smoothest thing on Earth, and over-stirring can make the waffles dense.

4. Fire up the waffle iron: Preheat your waffle maker according to its instructions. Lightly grease the plates with cooking spray or a smear of butter.

5. Cook to golden perfection: Ladle the batter onto the waffle iron (amount depends on your waffle maker; roughly 1/2 cup works for me) and close the lid. Cook until the waffles are crispy and golden brown, usually 3-5 minutes.

6. Serve hot and crispy: Stack those golden beauties onto a plate, top with butter, syrup, fruit, whipped cream—or all of the above. These waffles are yours now, so live your best topping life.

Quick Tips for Waffle Perfection

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can cause melted butter to solidify into clumps. Nobody wants that.
• Make ahead: The batter can hang out in the fridge overnight if you’re not a morning person. Just stir it before using.
• Freeze leftovers: Got extras? Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Pop them in the toaster for a crispy breakfast on the go.

Nutrition Info (Per Waffle)

• Calories: ~280
• Carbs: 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: ~1g

Why This Recipe Works

These sourdough discard waffles shine for a few key reasons:

1. Crispy exterior: Thanks to a perfectly balanced batter and hot waffle iron.
2. Fluffy interior: Hello, sourdough magic.
3. Versatility: Eat them plain, or top them with sweet or savory options. Trust me—waffles topped with fried chicken and maple syrup are life-changing.

If you’re still swimming in discard and want to explore more breakfast ideas, don’t forget to peep Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes: Easy, Tasty Ideas You’ll Love. From pancakes to crumpets, it’s loaded with zero-waste breakfast inspiration.

Endless Topping Options (aka Why Waffles Win)

Sure, waffles are amazing on their own, but why stop there? Here are my fave toppings to take them over the top:

• The classics: Butter and maple syrup—simple and satisfying.
• Fresh fruit: Strawberries, bananas, blueberries—heck, throw all the berries on there.
• Savory twist: Top with scrambled eggs, bacon, or smoked salmon.
• Decadent desserts: Nutella, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for brunch (no judgment).

Final Thoughts: Bring on the Waffles

Seriously, what’s stopping you from turning sourdough discard into crispy breakfast perfection? Whether you’re recharging after a long week or hosting a fancy brunch, these sourdough discard waffles are guaranteed to impress. Not only are they ridiculously tasty, but they also prove that “leftovers” can be every bit as luxurious as fresh ingredients.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a waffle stack calling my name. (Yes, it’s topped with peanut butter, bananas, and a drizzle of honey. Don’t @ me.)

Got extra sourdough discard? Make the most of it with other zero-waste recipes! Head over to Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes: Easy, Tasty Ideas You’ll Love for more ideas that’ll make your mornings interesting and your belly happy.

What toppings do you put on your waffles? Or do you have a favorite sourdough discard recipe? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!